My Favorite Dining Spots

I’ll just admit it right now: I love great food. 

I’m happy to make recommendations to my favorite spots in Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor. Please note, I’m only including restaurants where I have eaten and really enjoyed the experience. I’ll add to this list as I continue to explore. For everything else, feel free to ask me if you’re choosing between options on Yelp!

1. Bellflower Restaurant - 209 Pearl Street, Ypsilanti
Stealing the head photo spot of this blog post is a phenomenal fish dish I enjoyed in the summer of 2021. The Bellflower has an excellent wine list, and meal after meal of unique deliciousness. I haven’t yet had an entree that I haven’t loved. In the warmer months, most definitely sit outside. 

2. The Dixboro Project (The Boro) - 5400 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor
This complex sits on a stunning property. They have three concepts, The Boro ToGo, The Boro Dining Room & Bar, and The Dixboro House, which is very fine dining. In the warmer months, this is a great place to sit outside on picnic tables in their extensive lawn, to let kids run around, and to enjoy tasty pizzas from their wood-burning oven, while taking in the natural beauty. 

3. Shrimp Flavours - 529 W Cross St. Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Located near Ypsi’s downtown, you’ll miss it if you’re not looking closely. Depending on the time of day, you may be the only ones in the restaurant, but that’s because most of their business is take out and delivery. I must have seen 10 folks come in for deliveries in my hour there. This just means, you and your family will have more space to enjoy the aromas and tasty flavors of this very fine, nicely spiced, aromatic, South Indian cuisine. It’s really wonderful food and the only real Indian spot in Ypsi. The owner is outgoing and friendly. There is ample parking in the back. They’re equally well-known for their namesake, shrimp and their more traditional Indian recipes.   

4. Taste Kitchen - 521 E. Liberty Street, Ann Arbor
Excellent fine dining in downtown Ann Arbor. It’s a great spot for a special night out. Many guests who stay at Hillside Manor are celebrating special occasions. This is a wonderful spot to celebrate. Check out their beautifully plated main course meals on their menu page. 

5. Casablanca - 2333 Washtenaw Ave, Ypsilanti
This is a small, but very tasty casual dining option less than a 5 minute drive from Hillside Manor. It’s another great spot for families with children. They offer authentic Moroccan and Middle Eastern cuisine. Try their Moroccan Harira soup. Yum!

6. Encuentro Latino - 228 West Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti
If you’re looking for a unique breakfast spot, this downtown Ypsi location brings comfort and tasty Guatemalan breakfasts and juices.

7. Frita Batidos - 117 West Washington, Ann Arbor
This is a delightful stop and a unique Michigan treasure. They offer Cuban Street Food. It’s super casual and often filled with college students. The food is SO good. Order a cocktail, a beer, a fresh-squeezed fruit juice, or a Batido - a milkshake! 

8. Spencer - 113 East Liberty, Ann Arbor 
Another exquisite fine dining option in downtown Ann Arbor. They are also a wine shop. Make sure you make reservations, and they offer packages, so this one is definitely for a date night or special celebration, but wow is it a wonderful dining experience!

9. Sidetrack - 56 E Cross St., Ypsilanti, MI 48198
This is a longtime staple of Ypsi’s Depot Town. You’ll feel like you’re right in the middle of all the action. The tall ceilings, wide spaces, and very interesting decor will keep you looking around while the rest of your party reads the lengthy food menu. This is a pretty classic American spot. It’s great for a date, full family, or friends. The food is solid. I think most people will enjoy this slightly famous Ypsi spot. 

10. Zingerman’s Deli - 422 Detroit Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Last, but certainly not least…Zingerman’s! You really shouldn’t make a trip to this area without stopping at Zingerman’s Deli once. It’s iconic. Really great sandwiches that are so tall, they’re hard to eat! Outstanding service. It’s truly a unique experience. Make sure to stop next door to grab a milkshake, coffee, or dessert!

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